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For dorm essentials to late-night snack must-haves, they’ll feel fully prepared for freshman year.

I'm a Shopping Editor who uses my passion for hitting "add to cart" (and my 8+ years in media) to curate the best products on the web — I'm particularly passionate about finding the best beauty products, which probably stems from my days of working at Lush Cosmetics, where I learned about effective skincare ingredients while getting covered in bath bomb dust every day.

It's time to celebrate the class of 2026! If you have a recent high school grad in your life who is preparing to head off to college, their mind is probably swirling with both excitement and nerves over the new adventures to come. How will I decorate my dorm? What essentials do I need for the first year?? Will I sleep through my alarm on the first day?! Though you can't answer all those questions for them, you can help alleviate some of their nerves and elevate their excitement with the perfect gift. From practical bags and dorm goodies to fun tech and whimsical furniture, keep scrolling to see tons of gifts any soon-to-be college freshman will greatly appreciate. 

A TikTok-viral halo projector floor lamp with five bendable heads so they can fill their side of the room with colorful halos — though their roommate will probably ask them to shine one or two of them over in their direction (yes, even if their roommate is Wednesday Addams). It even comes with different filters so they can change the color of the projections.

Promising review: "I first saw this lamp at a friend’s friend’s house and immediately knew I wanted one too. After using it for half a year, I’m still very happy with my purchase! It provides plenty of light while creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in the room. The interchangeable filters are a nice touch — I like switching them out occasionally to keep things fresh, and having three sets included is really convenient. Assembly was quick and straightforward, which is always a plus." —D.

Or a colorful shower lamp so they can have appropriately dramatic lighting while singing their heart out in the shower at the end of a long day. It's waterproof and rechargeable, so they can carry it from their room to the bathroom with ease. It has 16 vibrant colors and six various dimming levels to choose from.

Promising review: "I struggle with light sensitivity and get migraines easily. This lamp has really helped me relax after a long day at work. I can either have the top and bottom lights on or just the top for a more relaxing vibe while taking a bath. I've used this lamp almost every single time I've been in my shower or using the bathtub, and I haven't had to charge it once. Perfect size for my shower ledge. I would definitely recommend this product or buy it again." —TaylorCat

Get it from Amazon for $19.94+ (available in two base colors).

A hardcover academic planner that gives them a dedicated space to plan all their studies, travels, and social events from August 2026 through July 2027. There's a special place to keep track of deadlines and grades, and even a place for goals and gratitude.

Promising review: "The most beautiful and functional planner. The pages are so lovely and high-quality, and I really appreciate the timetable and weekly schedule pages to plan my days. I'm a law student, so I have a lot of work to stay on top of! It is very slim, not bulky at all, and has everything I need in it. Would highly recommend.” —Mikey

Get it from Papier for $36 (available in four colors and either "academic year" style or "mid-year planner" style).

A set of reusable sticky notes (from Rocketbook, the same brand behind the iconic reusable notebook) so they'll always have a place to jot down homework reminders and to-do lists. The notes are made of a durable, tear-resistant material that still provides a paper-like feel when writing. They can scan their notes into the accompanying app, then wipe them away with the included towel. And yes, the adhesive is rinsable and totally reusable! 

The starter kit includes 15 3"x3" sticky notes, a pen, towel, and carrying case.

Promising review: "Great idea. I use a lot of Post-it notes. I like that I can now stop throwing them away. So far, I can easily erase what I write on them and then reuse them. They stick to about anything. I have not had to clean the adhesive yet, but according to the instructions, it is simple to wash it off. I am really liking these so far. Great value, too." —Andy R.

A beanbag chair, because let's be honest, this is secretly at the top of every freshman's dorm wishlist. It's low-key the whole point of having a dorm! This one offers a surprising amount of support thanks to the classic chair design, so they'll stay comfy whether they're studying all night or treating themselves to a PS5 break.

Promising review: "I purchased this for my son's dorm room. It was a big hit! Pros: very comfortable with good support." —Sapphire

Get it from Wayfair for $62.99 (available in 10 colors).

Or a whimsical banana beanbag chair with an extra banana pillow they can use as a body pillow or an ottoman! Reviewers say it's just as cozy and fluffy as it looks in the photos, so don't be surprised if their roommate tries to steal it.

Promising reviews: "Pretty comfortable, make sure you let it fluff out for a few days before sitting on it. It’s big enough for an adult to sit/lay on. It arrived quickly, well packaged. True to color." —Felicia

"Bigger than we expected and so fun and comfy. Perfect for college-age apartments." —Rachel E.

Get it from Amazon for $99.99+ (available in two sizes and eight colors).

A Kindle Paperwhite with a crisp, glare-free screen and 16 GB of storage space so they can carry their entire TBR list with them in their bag — which is quite impressive considering it weighs just a little over 7 ounces. If they're planning a celebratory vacation or commuting on public transportation for their new job, this is bound to become their new best friend.

Promising review: "I LOVE it. This is the first Kindle I've owned and it was the best thing I've ever gifted myself. I'm about 1.5 months in and have read over 15 books! I love that I can change the brightness and warmth as needed and even set a schedule. It is super easy to customize the text style and size for reading.

I also love that I can rent books from my library and download them straight to the Kindle. I have over 90 books on my Kindle and have only paid for one. Download speeds are super quick. It is a good size and pretty comfortable to hold but I did purchase a suction holder." —Spirit

Get it from Amazon for $159.99 (available in three colors and with or without lockscreen ads).

The Stanley Transfit FlipTop Mug, which features a super slim design (it's 33% lighter than similar stainless steel mugs!) and a secure lid to keep leaks and spills at bay. They'll be so grateful when their coffee is still perfectly warm after three back-to-back early-morning classes.

Promising review: "This product is amazing. I can make hot tea at 6 a.m., and it'll still be too hot to drink at 6 p.m...a testament to its amazing quality. Also, it's completely leakproof. I can hold it upside down, and nothing leaks out. SUCH a great value and I love the color." —Maddy

Get it from Amazon for $26.25+ (available in two sizes and 10 colors).

A bag of premium dried ramen toppings featuring shrimp, fishcakes, imitation crab, squid, and various vegetables that'll massively upgrade their instant cups to a restaurant-level experience. Tell them to go ahead and ditch that puny pack of dried veggies that comes in the pack — this has them covered!

Pair it with a pack of Momofuko restaurant-quality ramen noodles to really level up their late-night snacking experience.

Promising review: "We have all wished for more toppings in our instant ramen, so I had to try it. I used about two servings because I wanted to go big. Not only was it a ton when it rehydrated, but I think it added a great flavor with all the veggies. Totally what my noodles needed!" —Medford H.

Get it from Amazon for $26.99 (and check out more flavors here). 

A Book of the Month subscription so they'll have a fun surprise to look forward to every month. They'll get to pick out whichever book speaks to them that month, then treat themselves to some time to get lost in a good story when they aren't studying.

Promising review: "When I first heard about Book of the Month Club, I was skeptical. I can figure out what to read on my own, tyvm! But it's more than just 'let this company send you a random book.' You get to pick one of five books each month (or skip a month if nothing calls to you) and then you get a nice hardcover book in the mail. My favorite so far has been Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo: a fantasy thriller that imagines what it would be like if Yale's secret societies actually dabbled in black magic. I devoured it in almost one sitting. If you love ghosts, a reluctant Scooby gang, and a scathing critique of Ivy League classism, I highly recommend this engrossing read." —Bek O'Connell, BuzzFeed Editor

Get a three-month subscription to Book of the Month for $59.99/month.

A cozy peapod–shaped body pillow, because every college newbie needs something to comfort them after a long day of confusing lectures and overly long homework assignments. It even has a fold-up, button design that lets them use it as a back pillow during their study sessions.

Promising review: "I have a lot of pain from sleeping on my side; however, most body pillows I looked at are ugly and cumbersome. There are SO many ways to use this during sleep. It's like the perfect 'spooning' pillow, with a soft, comforting firmness (without the annoying human element!). It looks beautiful on my bed, too. Oh, and the very genius button to secure it as a round pillow as well. Perfect pillow!" —Diane

Get it from Amazon for $32.48+ (available in four sizes and 11 colors).

A gorgeous laptop tote bag reviewers are comparing to the pricier Béis Work Tote. The spacious design has enough room for a 15.6-inch laptop, a separate cushioned iPad pocket, and various other zippered compartments, so it'll basically become their new best friend for commuting to the office.

Promising reviews: "It’s much more spacious than it looks. It’s very sleek and stylish. I use it as my work bag and find that it looks professional and has enough space for all of my stuff. I carry a laptop, pencil case, two books, a makeup bag, a water bottle, a wallet, a lotion, a phone and laptop charger, and other small miscellaneous objects. Still plenty of space. And when you carry it, it doesn’t feel bulky or cumbersome." —Su

"Purchased for my daughter, who is an attorney. She said she really likes it and has gotten many compliments on it from her peers." —J Cliett

Get it from Amazon for $32.59+ (available in six styles). 

A stylish Quince backpack that'll be a major upgrade to the one they carried around in high school. This one is made of Italian leather, making it super durable and stylish. It's spacious enough to fit a laptop, tablet, notebooks, and anything else they need to get through their day of classes.

Promising review: "I was so impressed when I saw it. It's perfect for my Mac Air, and because it's so roomy and sleek, I can put my wallet and keys in it and just go. It's not necessary for me to take my purse. It's my favorite purchase. I'm going to buy one in black as well. If you are wondering, stop. Just buy it!" —Laura K.

Get it from Quince for $149.90 (available in three colors).

Or a Rifle Paper Co carry-all bag made of sturdy canvas that's big enough to carry their textbooks and laptop, yet still sleek enough to carry around campus all day. They'll be so grateful to have a nonbackpack option that's *actually* cute.

Promising reviews: "I've been looking for a tote bag that has a zippered top, and I was SO excited about finding this one. The quality is impeccable, the flower handles are gorgeous! I get SOO many compliments whenever I go out with my bag, and many ask where I got it. It is functional and exactly what I wanted in a bag. LOVE IT!" —Sophia P.

"Large enough for a three-ring binder and other items, and zips closed!!! Inside and outside pockets. Love it." —Wendy C.

Get it from Rifle Paper Co. for $79 (available in four colors).

A pixel art display that'll instantly add a dash of retro whimsy to their desk. They can make their own design if they're artistically inclined, or they can find a premade graphic in the accompanying app. It also doubles as a Bluetooth speaker, an alarm clock, a white noise machine, and a mood light.

Promising reviews: "This was bought as a last-minute Christmas gift for my teen daughter. She absolutely loves it! I was a bit taken aback by the price, but after seeing it in action, it was totally worth it! The speaker quality is great, and it has a ton of unique features that set it apart from similar products. Also, it comes in super cute packaging!" —jjwhray

"It was a gift for my niece, and boy, she loved it. Not just her, but the whole family. Now my nephew wants one, so yes, I'll buy it again." —chachalaco

Get it from Amazon for $73.99+ (available in five colors).

A college football stadium candle — the sculptural lid is a wildly detailed re-creation of their university's football stadium, so this is one candle they won't toss once they're done with it. Although some dorms may not allow candle-burning, so you might want to pair it with a candle warmer!

Promising review: "I purchased a Michigan candle for my fiancé and a UF candle for my step-mother. Both were so excited about it! The quality is great, it smells amazing, and the detail of the stadium is impressive! Very unique product and will be buying again." —The Britt

Get it from Uncommon Goods for $48 (available in 26 universities).

Or a Capri Blue Volcano reed diffuser so they'll have a way to keep their room smelling fresh even if their school doesn't allow candles in the dorms. It features notes of tropical fruits and sugared citrus that'll waft through the room thanks to the included reeds. "Wow, your room smells like Anthropologie!" — all their friends when they visit their dorm.

Promising review: "I absolutely love this reed diffuser! The mercury iridescent holder is gorgeous and goes with any décor — it looks great anywhere you put it. And the scent…hands down the BEST smell ever. It’s my all-time favorite and makes the whole room feel cozy and inviting. The glass is durable, the fragrance lasts, and it’s both functional and beautiful. If you want your space to smell amazing and look stylish, this is a must-have! It's a perfect size for any room." —MichyLeeLB

Get it from Amazon for $43 (available in four scents).

An acrylic personalized wall calendar, because they'll need an easy place to keep track of all their new social events and study groups. Pair it with some dry-erase markers, and they'll have all they need to be their most organized self.

Promising review: "Great gift for my niece who just moved into her first place. High quality product. Matches any decor. Would purchase from again." —m beach

Acrylic Sign Art is a small business based in Washington state that sells acrylic calendars, dry erase items, and magnetic calendars.

Get it from Acrylic Sign Art on Etsy for $45.94+ (available in six sizes and a choice of three marker sets).

A pair of stylish teardrop earrings that'll make them shed a tear when they realize they can now cross the way-pricier Bottega Veneta ones off their wishlist. Tons of reviewers say these are super lightweight and won't cause ear pain, yet still make quite a statement and elevate any outfit.

Promising review: "These are absolutely BEAUTIFUL! If I didn't know any better, I would have said these are the Bottega Drop Earrings. I personally love the smaller ones. I have not ordered the larger ones yet. Smaller ones are truthfully the perfect size. We love a good alternative because who has $800+ to spend on the Bottegas." —Brittany

Get them from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 11 colors, two-packs, and an extra-large size). 

The Apple Watch Series 11 so they can spend less time picking up their phone to check texts...and then get distracted by said phone. The latest version features longer battery life (up to 24 hours on a single charge) and an even more durable screen that's twice as resistant to scratches. And, of course, it can monitor sleep and fitness activity — all they have to do is wear it! Oh, and it tells time, but you probably knew that.

Promising review: "I love everything about this Apple Watch. The watch face size is perfect, and it is incredibly easy to use. It is comfortable enough to wear all day, and I love having so much information right at my fingertips. The band is great and very easy to change. It is also simple to hook and secure, which makes putting it on quick and hassle free. I even love the charger. It is easy to use and works seamlessly. Overall, it feels intuitive, functional, and comfortable. I have zero complaints." —Jill C.

Get it from Amazon for $299+ (available in four colors, two sizes, and two connectivity options).

A Kodak digital camera keychain blind box — yes, it ACTUALLY WORKS!!! It's small enough to fit in the palm of their hand and take actual photos and videos to capture all their freshman-year memories. They can even choose between four frames and seven filters, so it's basically a tiny photo booth they can clip on their keys, belt loop, or bag. It's like a Labubu, but useful! And dare I say cuter?!

They'll get one of seven designs. Also, they'll need a 1GB–128GB TF memory card, since one is not included in the package.

Promising review: "It's such a fun and simple design that you really will be taking photos of everything with it when you first get it." —Hannah Vo

A compact yet spacious Coach wallet with plenty of room for cards, cash, gift cards they get for graduation gifts, and there's even a zipper compartment for loose change and other small essentials.

Promising review: "Love it! My husband got it for me to match my purse. It's perfect! Fits all the cards I need, cash, and coins, and fits in my purse." —RickJ

Get it from Coach for $89 (available in 26 colors).

A lightweight quilted laptop sleeve that'll not only keep their computer safe thanks to the water-resistant nylon and fluffy fleece lining, but will also look wildly cuter than any of their peers'. 

Promising reviews: "Going on a big trip soon, and I bought this for travel. I am super obsessed with the quality and how light/soft it is. It's the perfect size for my laptop and acts as a cushion for other things in my backpack. It can be slightly tricky to open; I just slide one finger in and then expand my hand to open it, but it has a magnetic-like closure. Love the color too, it's simple." —mandella cesena

"I’m obsessed! It’s the cutest laptop case ever! It’s so soft and fluffy, like a pillow, but still slim enough to fit in my tote bag. I've never seen a laptop case like this before! Perfect for when I have to walk in the rain with my laptop in hand." —Adrienne

Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in two sizes and 11 colors). 

A fabulously swanky Swarovski pen for the grad that's just the right amount of *extra.* It features more than a thousand clear crystals that'll sparkle and shine while they write their notes, which is truly the level of glamour they deserve.

Get it from Swarovski for $79 (available in two colors).

An aesthetically pleasing Crosley record player with a cute floral motif that'll go with basically any dorm decor. It has Bluetooth connectivity so they can use it as a speaker when they're not spinning a vinyl, and there's even a headphone jack if they and their roommate don't share the same music taste.

A Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Maker, which I promise is at the top of the wish list for any caffeine aficionados in your life. This sleek model takes up very little space, so it's perfect for small dorms. Plus, it'll brew up a cafe-quality cup in mere seconds. Pair this with a variety pack of Nespresso pods to win the "Best Gift Giver" award in their coffee-loving heart.

Promising review: "I am OBSESSED. I love this, the whole process is so much easier than an espresso machine with all the work. This is just top tier." —Katie

Get it from Amazon for $124.95+ (available in three colors and in a bundle with a frother).

A set of Brooklinen sheets that'll make their twin XL bed feel as comfy as a cloud. It's made of percale cotton, which has a crisp feel — almost like a well-loved button-down shirt! Reviewers find them super breathable and say they get even softer after washing several times. 

The set includes one fitted sheet, one flat sheet, and two pillowcases.

Promising review: "Brooklinen to the rescue again! My daughter took these to her dorm, and says that her bed there is as comfortable as her bed at home!" —Dawn J.

Get the Twin XL size from Brooklinen for $126.75 (originally $169; available in 25 colors; also available in sizes Twin–California King). Also available in a soft sateen cotton fabric.

A set of 100% cotton towels, because going off to college doesn't mean they have to put up with thin, flimsy towels. Reviewers say these are super soft, absorbent, and that they hold up well in the wash. Plus, they're 600 GSM, meaning they're a good medium weight that's perfect for everyday use since they absorb quite a bit, yet still dry quickly.

The set includes two bath towels, two hand towels, and two washcloths.

Promising review: "Super fluffy. It’s very absorbent, soft, and larger in size. I love how it has a whole set for the entire restroom. I am absolutely loving every piece of it, and I would love to purchase more!" —pinkt0ne

Get it from Macy's for $57.40 (originally $82; available in 10 colors).

A pair of Beats Studio Pro headphones — reviewers say they have impeccable noise cancellation and surprisingly long battery life on a single charge (like, up to 40 hours long!). They'll be so grateful that they're able to drown out the noise of their annoying roommates first thing in the morning.

Promising review: "Works well, great sound quality, the noise cancellation mode is surreal. Connection is great, no problems with it, and the battery life is great. Depending on how much you use them, one charge can last for days." —Jamisyn M.

Get it from Amazon for $199.95+ (available in six colors). 

A Rhode skincare set so they can start their first month of undergrad with a full routine that's both trendy and super effective. The kit includes mini sizes of Pineapple Refresh cleanser, Glazing Milk, Peptide Glazing Fluid, and Barrier Restore Cream — so their skin will look glowy and feel hydrated even when they're at their most stressed.

Promising review: "I was skeptical at first, but these products have changed my normal/ combination skin for the better! My skin has never been more clear and glowy. I’ll definitely be buying the whole line of full sized products. This kit is great if you’re just curious to try Rhode out like I was. I’m hooked." —Imannn24

A week-to-week desk planner, because college throws a lot at you at once — they'll appreciate a dedicated place to keep their schedule organized. There's even a spot to keep track of their goals, remember something that made them smile, or simply doodle and let their creative side out. It has 52 undated pages, so they can start using it any time they want!

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The reviews used in this post have been edited for length and clarity.